The city of Manchester

We’re proud to be close to the centre of Manchester, the UK’s most popular student city.

Originally shaped by its success during the industrial revolution of the 19th century, Manchester’s strong, pioneering character endures today – only now its achievements also include shaking up the music scene, nurturing artistic creativity and hosting international sporting events.

Never content to live on past glories, Manchester is a city that looks to the future with a passion for progress, and warmly invites you to share in its vision and vitality.

The city centre

Here are some of the main areas of the city centre that you’ll get to know while living in Manchester.

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Albert Square

The impressive 19th-century Town Hall building dominates the square which forms the centre of many of Manchester’s biggest festivals, including the Manchester International Festival and the Christmas markets.

Castlefield

An inner-city conservation area where you will find a Roman fort, the world’s oldest industrial canal, cobbled streets and brick warehouses – it’s one of the most peaceful areas of the city.

Chinatown

Manchester’s Chinatown is an ever popular destination with countless restaurants, Asian supermarkets, events and festivals all year round.

Deansgate

A busy street running through the heart of the city, Deansgate is home to countless shops, food and drink hotspots, and Manchester landmarks, such as the huge Beetham Tower and our own John Rylands Library. The Great Northern is a particular draw with its restaurants, bowling and cinema.

Market Street, the Cathedral Quarter and Manchester Arndale

At the indoor Arndale mall you can shop until you drop at over 240 shops and department stores. Stepping outside, you’ll be met by everything from premium department stores such as Harvey Nichols and Selfridges to high street favourites – you are sure to find what you are looking for.

Northern Quarter

Vintage fashion boutiques, independent cafes, fashionable bars, music venues and the indoor markets at Afflecks make this the perfect place for chilled-out days and alternative nights out.

Piccadilly

A great place to start your explorations of the city. You will find the main train, bus and tram stations here as well as the Visitor Information Centre and the Wheel of Manchester.

Spinningfields

The business district of the city is home to some of the biggest names in finance and professional services including Barclays, Deloitte and Guardian Media Group. But it’s not all about work – you’ll also find some of trendiest cocktail bars, restaurants and pricey designer shops here.